Gladys Cambrel-Crockett

Gladys Roberta Cambrel-Crockett, affectionately known as

“Bert,” entered eternal rest on June 17, 2025, in Oxon Hill,

Maryland. Born on April 1, 1943, in Bluefield, West Virginia, she

lived a life defined by grace, resilience, and radiant joy. A

devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend,

Bert’s vibrant spirit and generous heart left a lasting impression on

all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The beloved daughter of Ralph K. Hanley Sr. and Rosa J. Hanley,

Bert was raised in a close-knit family where faith, perseverance,

and love were deeply rooted. These early values guided the

course of her life and shaped the remarkable woman she

became.

After graduating from Bluefield High School, Bert relocated to

Washington, D.C., where she pursued her passion for business

and service. A proud graduate with a degree in Business

Administration, she went on to lead the Western Union Branch on

Capitol Hill for over 40 years. Her tenure was distinguished by

unwavering professionalism, integrity, and leadership, earning her

the admiration and respect of her colleagues and clients alike.

Bert’s commitment to excellence extended beyond the

workplace. She was a proud Legacy Life Member of the National

Council of Negro Women and made meaningful contributions to

the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. Her dedication to

education, civic engagement, and personal growth was a

reflection of her dynamic intellect and deep sense of purpose.

Though her professional accomplishments were many, it was

Bert’s personal grace that truly defined her. Known for her brilliant

smile and quick wit, she had a unique ability to bring joy to those

around her. Stylish, poised, and full of life, she embodied

elegance with authenticity and mastered the art of balancing

hard work with wholehearted living.

Her interests reflected her vibrant personality. Bert loved to travel,

shop, and collect beautiful treasures that told stories of her

adventures. Crossword puzzles kept her mind sharp, while her

love for art was evident in her carefully curated collection of

figurines and paintings. Her faith was a steady and guiding force

in her life, and as a devoted member of Central Baptist Church

of Camp Springs, she served her community with generosity,

humility, and love.

Family was the center of Bert’s world. She was preceded in death

by her beloved husband, James C. Crockett; her cherished son,

Vernel R. Hanley; her beautiful grand-daughter, Ryleigh C.

Cambrel, and her siblings James H. Ferguson, Clarence R.

Ferguson, Ralph K. Hanley Jr., Shirly B. Johnson,and Betty

Williamson. She is survived by her loving sister, Francis H.

Mahan- Hill, who holds dear a lifetime of shared memories.

Bert leaves to cherish her memory her devoted children,

Meceshia T. Stewart and Richard C. Cambrel Jr. (Pershelle);

her treasured grandchildren, Bria, Jasmine, Ryann, Vernel,

Richard III, and Reece; and a host of adoring nieces,

nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends

who will continue to honor her legacy with love and grace.

The family extends their deepest gratitude for the prayers,

visits, calls, and acts of kindness that have offered comfort during this time of

 remembrance. 

Bert’s life was a beautiful gift, filled with strength, style, humor, and unwavering love.

 Her legacy will live on in the hearts she touched and the lives she inspired.